[Ben Ficklin]

Sure, it is a closed loop system, which can also be called a self correcting system. If there is an increase in respiration(too many cows) there will be a corresponding increase in photosynthesis(more trees). It self corrects.

But the actual problem is that all the carbon(that we call fossil fuel) that was sequestered during the carboniferous period has been dug up or pumped from the ground and burned for energy. Over a relatively short period of time.

This significant increase has obviously increased photosynthesis, but the amount of CO2 being emitted has overwhelmed photosynthesis so CO2 concentrations in the two atmospheres(gaseous and aqueous) continue to rise.

In that sense, the closed loop system has become open loop. And self correcting has become self perpetuating.

[Boogieman]

“This significant increase has obviously increased photosynthesis, but the amount of CO2 being emitted has overwhelmed photosynthesis so CO2 concentrations in the two atmospheres(gaseous and aqueous) continue to rise.

In that sense, the closed loop system has become open loop. And self correcting has become self perpetuating.”

Well, it’s a good thing that the planet relies on more than just photosynthesis to balance the system. Photosynthesis is just one short term corrective factor, the absorption of carbon into the oceans and earth’s crust are also corrective factors that respond to feedback from the cycle, so I don’t think we have much to worry about.

[jdege]

“In that sense, the closed loop system has become open loop.”

Maybe. But cows don’t have anything to do with it. Neither do rain forests.

Every mature ecosystem is carbon stable.

There are only two parts of the ecosystem that sequester carbon - oceanic algae, as it drops to the depths, and humans, as they cut down trees and put into places where it won’t rot. (I.e., building homes and landfills).